How to Whiten Teeth With a Laser

Laser teeth whitening is a procedure, that offers instant results. A light activated bleaching gel is used in a process that takes approximately one hour. The professional laser whitening procedure may be followed up with a home whitening kit to further improve results.

Instructions

• 1

  Discuss the possible risks or side effects associated with the laser whitening procedure with your dentist. You may be asked to sign a consent form, to ensure that you understand the procedure and have been warned of the risks involved.

• 2

  Clean your teeth thoroughly. Your dentist or hygienist will remove any stains or tartar in a process known as scale and polish.

• 3

  Record the exact shade and colour of your teeth before the procedure. This is done using either a high quality digital camera, or a colour chart.

• 4

  Prepare the area to be worked on, so your gums and mouth are not at risk from chemicals used in the procedure. This involves cotton wool and a protective gel that hardens, thus preventing the bleaching compound from coming into contact with your gums. A cheek retractor will also help keep your cheeks away from the teeth. To prevent any damage to your eyes, special protective goggles are also necessary.

• 5

  Apply the whitening gel. The dentist will carefully smear the gel onto your teeth and expose it to the laser in order to activate its whitening properties. After approximately 15 minutes, the gel is removed and reapplied two more times.

• 6

  Wash off the whitening gel and remove the gum protectors and cheek retractors. The dentist will then use a colour chart or take another photograph to check the results of the procedure. The improvements are usually quite dramatic, often about 10 shades lighter.

• 7

  Allow your teeth to recover from the whitening gel, as they will be sensitive. Small short-lived shooting pains may occur, but this should not persist after 48 hours. Avoid hot or cold drinks for a while, in order to prevent discomfort. If symptoms of discomfort persist for longer than 48 hours, contact the dentist.